Hodges wants to shoulder Broncos' load - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

Hodges wants to shoulder Broncos' load

By Wayne Heming 29/04/2008 05:00:21 PM Comments (0)

Justin Hodges is prepared to risk a very special Test jumper to help Brisbane ride out a backline injury crisis against Wests Tigers on Saturday night.

Still recovering from a neck injury suffered two weeks ago and a virus which leaves him feeling good one day and lousy the next, Hodges was sent for more scans on Tuesday, this time on the shoulder he slammed into the ground during last weekend's win over South Sydney.

He still hasn't regained a lot of range in his damaged shoulder and is in doubt for the Tigers clash and also the Centenary Test match against New Zealand.

Hodges was adamant he wanted to play against the Tigers with Brisbane's backline already missing fullback Karmichael Hunt (knee) and centre Steve Michaels (ACL).

Centre Nick Emmett is set to play for Redcliffe in the Queensland Cup this weekend, his first game for the season after foot surgery, while former Dragons winger Tom Hewitt (hamstring) is yet to play a game for Brisbane.

Young speedster Gerard Beale, rated a player of the future, could get a late call up from Brisbane's under-20 side should Hodges fail to come good in time.

"I'm a little bit concerned (about the Test) but I'll have the scans today and see what they show," said Hodges.

Asked if he'd sit out Brisbane's clash with the Tigers to improve his prospects of playing in Friday week's Test, Hodges said he'd prefer to play for the Broncos if possible.

"That may happen, but I don't want to miss too many games (for Brisbane) so I'll have to see how it pans out.

"I don't have much range in the shoulder but I've still got a few more days left so hopefully that will come good."

Coach Wayne Bennett has named Joel Moon in the centres to replace Michaels with former Cowboys backrower Derrick Watkins included in his 18-man squad.

Brisbane have been hit by a spate of injuries with the likes of Darren Lockyer, Hodges, Karmichael Hunt, Corey Parker, PJ Marsh, Joel Clinton and Tonie Carroll unable to train this week.

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